Category Archives: Pest Management

In the 1850s, Mormon settlers new to Utah described a plague of insects that were destroying their crops. The insects were given the name, “Mormon Crickets” and it has stuck for over a century even though the insects are not … Continue reading →

Ornamental plants that stay green in the winter can be aesthetically pleasing additions to office spaces, coffee shops and foyers. Sitting next to a Florida palm tree can trigger memories of a tropical vacation. What could go wrong? Inspectors in … Continue reading →

Insect Biologists at land grant institutions have a historical role in providing information to farmers about insects that affect their crops. When new crops or new insects occur, insect biologists will begin the meticulous task of documentation and providing data … Continue reading →

The ability to manipulate insect genes has led to new methods of insect control. Some genetic manipulations lead to insects that are sterile or fail to develop. The company Oxitec produces genetically altered insects that could potentially control pests. Initial … Continue reading →

The original grain elevators were focused on efficient storage and handling of grain. The elevated storage concept was adopted by grain growers throughout the US as evidenced by the grain silos that dot the rural landscape. Silos allowed grain growers … Continue reading →

Grain elevators are used to store grain for future shipment. Large concentrations of grain in protected conditions create an ecosystem for insect colonization. The pests vary with geography, but many pests are distributed globally, having made their way around the … Continue reading →

Visceral leishmaniasis is transmitted by biting phlebotomine flies (aka sand flies). The disease is spreading to urban areas in parts of Brazil. Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease in countries such as Brazil because the disease mostly affects poor people with … Continue reading →